Hello, everyone! Are you familiar with the Eastern Marsh Harrier, a bird of prey that dances gracefully in nature? The world of this bird offers us many surprises and discoveries.
The Eastern Marsh Harrier is sized at about 48cm for males and 58cm for females, with a notable feature being that the females are larger. The plumage varies among individuals. Males have a black head and white belly, while females are covered in brown feathers. These characteristics differ regionally, and their diversity is truly remarkable!
Many live in small numbers in Hokkaido and Honshu, but a lot migrate to wetlands and reed beds as winter birds. They prey on rodents, small birds, fish, and frogs, and lay eggs in nests made of piled-up dry grass on the ground. The call of the Eastern Marsh Harrier is also very distinctive, with sounds like “Mew-ah” and “Kik-kik.” Particularly during the mating season, the males court by calling “Mew, mew,” which is quite romantic.
The Eastern Marsh Harrier, adept at low-altitude flying, dances in the mid-air during the breeding season. Its flying ability is incredibly impressive. It is considered the only bird of prey capable of vertical takeoff and landing, and has even inspired the name of a British fighter jet. Its form, gliding low while hunting for prey, is a true acrobat of the natural world! Interestingly, there is also a car named Harrier in Japan.
However, sadly, due to the decrease in their habitats, they are designated as an endangered species in Japan. The world of the Eastern Marsh Harrier still holds many unknowns for us, teaching us the importance of environmental protection to ensure these birds can continue to fly freely. When you visit a wetland area next time, be sure to look out for the Eastern Marsh Harrier.
